They are the ones who are struggling through the challenging path towards formalization of small-scale mining operations in the country, and the promotion of their rights to access the services that they deserve.” “These Champions are brave individuals inspiring change in their communities. National Project Manager Abigail Ocate of planetGOLD Philippines emphasized the importance of highlighting the people behind the gold we use everyday. The exhibit recognizes the hardworking and passionate leaders advocating for a cleaner, safer and more profitable ASGM sector in the Philippines. To celebrate the contributions of ASGM Champions across different sectors–from the national and local government, non-government, private, academia, and the mining communities themselves–planetGOLD Philippines launched “Behind the Gold Rush: A Photo Exhibition featuring People Advocating for the Advancement of ASGM in the Philippines” at its project sites in Paracale, Camarines Norte and Sagada, Mt. While these numbers speak volumes, small-scale miners and the different sectors helping the industry still lack recognition for their efforts in improving the economy of the country.

In 2011, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) reported that 80% of the annual gold reserves were produced through small-scale mining. More than providing livelihood opportunities, the ASGM sector helps the Philippine economy by producing gold which we unconsciously use in our everyday lives–whether it is in the form of jewelry, electronics, gadgets, and more.

The Philippines is home to an estimated 500,000 miners operating in the artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) sector. Behind the Gold Rush Photo Exhibit booth during the 10th Sagada Etag Festival at the Sagada Municipal Hall Plaza

Gold rush narrator